Film Lens
The film examines the intense rivalry between Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla during the late 19th century as they compete to establish their electrical systems as the standard in America. It details how Edison, under pressure from financier JP Morgan, resorts to unethical tactics to discredit Tesla's alternating current (AC) while promoting his own direct current (DC) as the safer option. The narrative reveals the lengths to which Edison goes, including public demonstrations that involve harming animals to instill fear about AC's dangers.
As the competition escalates, the documentary shows the involvement of powerful figures like John D. Rockefeller and Andrew Carnegie, who unite to influence political outcomes in their favor. The film culminates in a pivotal moment when these titans of industry must set aside their rivalries to confront the growing threat posed by Tesla's innovations and the changing landscape of electricity consumption in America.
Why Watch
- •See how Edison used unethical tactics against Tesla's AC.
- •Find out why Rockefeller wanted to keep kerosene dominant.
- •Meet the powerful men who influenced presidential elections.
Did You Know
•John D. Rockefeller tried to stop electricity from gaining traction in the market.
•JP Morgan's father advised him to avoid competition at all costs.
•Edison used public demonstrations to portray alternating current as dangerous by killing animals.
•Edison was involved in developing an electric chair as a humane alternative to hanging.
Perfect For
Electricity history buffsBusiness rivalry enthusiastsInnovators and inventors